MTI and Singapore Customs issue joint reminder to traders and declaring agents on accurate country-of-origin declarations to uphold Singapore’s standing as a trusted trade hub.

Singapore, The Ministry of Trade and Industry (MTI), Ministry of Finance, and Singapore Customs have jointly emphasised the importance of strict adherence to trade compliance as a cornerstone of Singapore’s global business credibility and competitiveness.

Singapore Customs has issued a circular to all traders and Declaring Agents, reminding them of the critical need to accurately declare the “Country/Region of Origin” in all import, export, and transhipment permit applications via Singapore’s TradeNet system. Goods labelled as originating from Singapore must meet the appropriate criteria under Singapore’s Free Trade Agreements or non-preferential Rules of Origin.

Failure to comply with origin declaration requirements may constitute an offence under the Customs Act and the Regulation of Imports and Exports Act and result in penalties. Since 2020, nearly 690 cases related to inaccurate origin declarations have been investigated, with enforcement actions including notices of advisory, composition sums and prosecutions in court. 

“Accurate origin declaration is fundamental to Singapore’s rules-based trade framework,” said Mr Lee Boon Chong, Senior Assistant Director-General (Trade) of Singapore Customs. “This advisory reminds businesses of their responsibilities in meeting origin determination requirements, thereby supporting Singapore’s reputation as a trusted global trade hub.”

Singapore Customs continues to work closely with Trade Associations and Chambers authorised to issue Ordinary Certificates of Origin, ensuring alignment with regulatory expectations. Currently, five Trade Associations and Chambers issue OCOs, namely Singapore Chinese Chamber of Commerce & Industry, Singapore Indian Chamber of Commerce & Industry, Singapore International Chamber of Commerce, Singapore Malay Chamber of Commerce & Industry (SMCCI), and Singapore Manufacturing Federation.

Source: MTI